FAQs about Special Education
Who will test and evaluate a student?
A student will be evaluated by district professional personnel and will receive, at a minimum, psychological and educational evaluations.
Will parents have an opportunity to see the reports on the evaluations before the meeting?
Reports are shared with parents prior to the committee meeting.
Who will be at the meeting of the Committee on Special Education?
The chairperson, a school psychologist, a general education teacher, a special education teacher, parent(s), and other people who possess knowledge or special expertise regarding the student, including related-services-personnel as appropriate.
What is the procedure if parents don’t agree with the committee’s decision?
Should parents’ concerns not be resolved through the committee, or informally through discussions with the district, Special Education Mediation, a voluntary process is available. Parents have a right to request in writing a timely mediation run by a qualified and impartial mediator. Should mediation fail to resolve the issue, parents have the right to request an Impartial Hearing. Additional information on Mediation and Due Process Proceedings can be found in “Special Education in New York State for Children Ages 3-21: A Parent’s Guide” which is provided to all parents of students referred to the Committee on Special Education or the Committee on Preschool Special Education.
Who can attend the committee meeting?
Parents may bring additional people to the committee meeting. The district asks for prior notice to ensure there is sufficient space, seating or technical support. If a parent brings legal representation without advanced notice, the committee meeting may be postponed so that the school district may also arrange for legal representation.
How long will it take to do the evaluation?
Regulations require evaluations and initial eligibility determination to take place within 60 calendar days of receipt of parental consent for evaluation. Evaluations are completed as soon as possible once parental consent is received.
What if parent brings a physician’s note that says a student needs services?
Information from physicians regarding a student’s medical status will be considered along with other documentation at the committee meeting. This information should be submitted to the Special Education Office in advance of the scheduled meeting.
Where can parents find out about the process and the laws that govern Special Education?
Parents can access information regarding the Special Education process and regulations at:
Will a student ever be reevaluated to “test out” of Special Education?
Student reevaluation every three years is required for students classified with a disability. This Reevaluation Review may be requested any time should there be a need to consider declassification.
Whom should parents contact if a student is struggling and may be in need of services?
A child’s teacher can provide information regarding support available through general education. Should a parent wish to access the Special Education process, please contact:
Karen Jordan, Director of Pupil Personnel
845-460-6700 ext. 6781Eric Eulau, Director of Special Education (K-5)
845-460-6700 ext. 6789Randi Connolly, Director of Special Education (6-12)
845-460-6700 ext. 6749Gina Matise, Committee on Special Education Chairperson (6-12)
845-460-6700 ext.Christine Seijas, Committee on Preschool Special Education Chairperson
845-460-6700 ext. 6785
What help is available to students who are not classified with a disability?
Monroe-Woodbury offers a variety of Academic Intervention Services (AIS), English Language Learner (ELL) support services, after school homework help, Guidance supports, and vocational programming opportunities. Please speak with your school’s principal, your child’s guidance counselor or school social worker regarding available programs.